I truly understand what he or she is trying to do – set their organization above others in the field. Not thought of though, is that an outcome from making these negative statements is that the hearer can become uncomfortable, and instead of having more faith in the discreditor’s company, question the belittler’s ethics.

Another problem with the practice of slamming the competition is that the negative statement often gets back to the slammed competitor, who then feels obligated to make a negative statement regarding the discreditor’s organization to defend his company’s reputation – and on and on it goes.

Do not use negativity to sell your organization. You don’t need to. Selling is rather simple once you gain the appointment.

First, meet to determine what issues the potential customer is having, and then point out how you can solve the problems in a timely, efficient and professional manner. Set yourself up as the individual who meets needs for one’s clients. Practice this, and you will gain far more orders than by belittling the competition.

August is a busy month at the McHenry Area Chamber.

Watley Med Spa and Wellness Center will host a mixer Aug. 12, and Pioneer Center is hosting one Aug. 16. Those wishing to connect with owners of these organizations, plus meet other businesses, should plan to attend these upcoming mixers, which start at 5 p.m.

The chamber’s kick-off party for the Men of Monday Night Football Raffle is at 5 p.m. Aug. 19. It will be at Half Time Bar and Grill. Attendees who have bought a raffle book have the opportunity to win $250. Those who have not bought a raffle book will be able to do so at the event. Get your lucky number and gain access to coupons including free oil changes by buying your book early at the chamber office for $20. There are one in 18 chances to win from $50 up to $500.

To buy a book, stop by the chamber office, 1257 N. Green St, McHenry. Supplies are limited, so get your copy today.

The next brown bag lunch is Aug. 13 and will feature Tracey Maussbaum of the Sun-Times newspaper discussing our new digital world and how it has become a game changer for business. The event starts at 11:45 a.m. in the chamber office.

The Country Meadows Wine and Craft Show is Sept. 21 at Veteran’s Park. It offers an opportunity for chamber small businesses. Be part of our vendor portion and gain access to the community. For information, visit the chamber website at www.mchenrychamber.com.

And save the date for our first Radical River Rally on Sept. 15, the Wings woman’s professional group’s Table Talk (mini Scramble for women) on Sept. 17 and the Networking Scramble on Nov. 7.